Class Descriptions

Little Genius

In this class, with a carefully structured curriculum for students 4 - 7 years old, we will focus on basic music skills in a fun and engaging environment. Of the many musical activities that students will participate in - starting on day one, students will begin to learn how to perform traditional Latin American songs. Throughout the class, which may be repeated several times, students begin to gain a fundamental understanding of percussion instruments – including xylophone, claves, tambourines, and shakers; learn about and listen to historically significant composers/musicians in Latin America; and learn basic note reading through singing and playing a variety of instruments (i.e., recorder, violin, guitar, and cuatro). Little Genius students are encouraged to perform in the Student Showcase at the end of each 12-week session – which will highlight their amazing, newly developed, music skills for their families and musical peers.

Mondays from 5:30-6:30PM

Beginner Cuatro and Guitar

The Latin Music Project (LMP) Cuatro and Spanish Guitar Programs support the organization’s mission to maintain Puerto Rican cultural traditions and promote Puerto Rican arts while cultivating pride in Puerto Rican heritage for future generations.

Through their participation in this culturally rich program, students gain an understanding and appreciation of the unique musical heritage of the Cuatro and Spanish guitar in Puerto Rico, as well as acquire skills designed to support lifelong involvement in learning and performing this traditional music.

Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30PM

Beginner Violin

This class is an introductory level where students learn the basics of the violin and music theory. They will work on Latin American repertoire and traditional violin technique as well. No prior experience necessary.

Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30PM

Intermediate Cuatro

In this course students will continue building on skills they learned in Beginning Cuatro. Students will master the basics of reading and writing music notation for the Puerto Rican cuatro, learn more advanced picking and left-hand techniques, add to their chord vocabulary, learn common chord-progressions, and explore a variety of repertoire from different Latin American cultures. This course can only be entered by audition or by recommendation/invitation from teachers.

Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30PM

Intermediate Guitar

In this course, students continue building on skills learned in Beginning Guitar including:

• performing basic/intermediate music notation on guitar

• more advanced right-and-left hand techniques

• basic chord shapes and common chord progressions

• accompanying rhythm/strumming patterns for Latin American styles

• building on their Latin American music repertoire

Skills learned in this course will progressively challenge the student in different and creative ways; and require learning different techniques and knowledge of the instrument. This course also functions as an intro to ensemble playing and students may be asked to participate in an ensemble suited for students of this level. To gain the most benefit, it is recommended that students enroll in this course a minimum of four (4) sessions.

Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30PM

Intermediate Violin

Students in this class have prior knowledge of the instrument, know how to read music and must take a placement audition. They will work on more challenging repertoire, improve their sight-reading skills and keep reinforcing music theory.

Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30PM

Advanced Ensemble “Latin Music Project” (LMP)

This course can only be entered by audition or by recommendation/invitation of one of the teachers. This course focuses on learning a variety of exciting repertoire from traditional Latin, popular music and classical repertoire. It explores advanced techniques for each instrument that will push your music performance to the best of each student’s ability. The LMP offers scholarship opportunities to those who participate, therefore, it is required that students who participate in the LMP participate in a variety of activities throughout the year and attend rehearsals on a regular, consistent basis (Mondays & Thursdays 5:30- 7:00 pm). Parents must also be involved/volunteer with some PRAA related activities.